boat covers

[Jeff Snyders]

I have been mulling over getting a snap tarp or one with bungee cords. Anybody have any input for me? The cost at where I'm getting it done is the same. Most concerned about keeping water out and being able to travel down the road with it on and not do any damage.

[Smitty]

I personally like the snap on covers. Mine have lasted very well and are quick and easy. I have never had mine leak a drop and probably tow my boat about 3000-4000 miles a year.
I've heard too many stories about straps rubbing on the boat and damaging the finish. :(

The key element here is really the material and the person making the cover. A good quality cover will last you a very long time.

[Jerry]

Jeff, search the archives. You'll find lots of postings on this subject. My recommendation would be a snap cover made of topgun or some similar material. Based on experience from towing long distances with my cover on, I would use heavy duty, twist-type snaps on the front side of the cover. Also, when they drill the holes to install the snaps on the boat, make sure they silicone the holes to prevent galvanic corrosion. Lots of benefits to snaps over straps. The only negative I can see is the appearance of the snaps on the boat, which you get used to.

[Skis]

I am probably one of the few, but I like the bungee strap covers. I just put a custom made one on my new boat, and it works fine. The first cover that came with the boat, well that's another story!!

I like the bungee cord cover for many reasons. First, I think I can get the cover off quicker. Secondly, I don't like the idea of having all of those snaps on my boat. I am a neat freak and don't think I'd enjoy washing around all of those snaps either.

Just my two cents. If it's a custom made cover, you shouldn't have problems either way.

[Jack G]

When I bought my 1998 Lund Tyee I ordered a canvas boat cover from the dealer. They provided a cover that utilizes bungee cord tiedowns.

I trailer my boat about 5,000 miles per year and the bungee cords, edge of the cover and the little flaps they provide to protect your boat from the end of the bungee cords all have dulled the paint or polished it right down to bright aluminum.

If I get a new boat I will certainly try the snap cover next time. I do not know how good it will perform but I bet it will be better than the one I have.

Good luck!

Jack